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Posted: 6/25/2011 12:19:56 PM EDT
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To make the story short I purchased some used reloading equip to get me started reloading. It came with a old RCBS 505 scale. I ordered some check weights to check the accuracy of the scale and found a issue. If you mess with the scale ie putting the weight in the pan and then after it settles bumping the bar a few times eventually it will show the correct weight, usually one or two bumps will do it. That being said I need to make sure I have a scale that is measuring accurately.
I would like a good and accurate beam scale, something that will outlast me preferably. I want something that will be good enough for my pistol plinking loads all the way up to being able to use as a bench rest scale when i get older and retired. And no, at this point i do not want an electronic scale, I am loading with the basics for the time being, learning my way into the easier faster products as I go. Any recommendations? thanks! |
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Don't discount that 505 scale, just clean it!
Start by making sure that the copper tab or the beam doesn't touch the body of the scale. Remove the beam and check the contact points on the beam are sharp and not buggered up, if they are, use a stone to JUST clean them up. Next, use a Q-tip with IPA on the agate blocks where the beam balances. Then, use a small soft brush to brush all the notches in the beam, make sure all dust is removed everywhere. Next, find a level spot on the bench by using a level, I use a polished piece of granite for my scale. Now, check the accuracy of the scale. 'Borg |
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Quoted:
Don't discount that 505 scale, just clean it! The scale was stored in a garage the past 20 years, first thing I did when I received it was clean it, did a total disasemmbly and cleaned all the parts. Start by making sure that the copper tab or the beam doesn't touch the body of the scale.Check, no hangups there Remove the beam and check the contact points on the beam are sharp and not buggered up, if they are, use a stone to JUST clean them up. Contact points are clean and sharp Next, use a Q-tip with IPA on the agate blocks where the beam balances. They are clean, I assumed IPA meant Isopropyl Alcohol and I did clean with no change in results.. Then, use a small soft brush to brush all the notches in the beam, make sure all dust is removed everywhere. No dust in the teeth. Although the weight you slide up and down the teeth does not seem to fit snug in the teeth, there is lateral movement even when in the notch. Next, find a level spot on the bench by using a level, I use a polished piece of granite for my scale. I have a leveled bench, double checked the block with my starret mechanics level where the scale sits and it is nice on both axis. Now, check the accuracy of the scale. 'Borg I don't know if this makes any difference but I mis-poke, its a RCBS 5-10, not a 505. Nothing seems to be amiss, the read head floats without dragging or touching on anything. Read above for inline comments in red. Thanks for your pointers. |
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If it still doesn't settle down, then use a 10X loupe to inspect, both the agate blocks for chips and the knife edge contact points.
Those are the only two things that will do what you describe. You might also check to see if the magnets in the base are present and in place. Make sure the copper strip is centered in between the uprights. The 10-10 is one of the best beam scales out there, made by Ohus. 'Nuther thing, check the poise and make sure it's flat and straight. 'Borg |
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I bought a used 5-10 scale and the beam was missing paint and looked rough when I got it, I had the same problem as you so I called RCBS and they gave me a RA # to send it back to Ohaus. When I received it back from Ohaus it had a brand new beam, pan, hanger, & V-blocks, it's worked like new ever since I got it back and it didn't cost me a dime.
If you want to buy new scales get the RCBS 10-10, it will last a life time. |
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